I will miss it immensely - McCabe

Brumbies and Wallabies back Pat McCabe has written an open letter expressing his feelings after being forced to retire from rugby.

Brumbies and Wallabies player Pat McCabe has written an open letter expressing his feelings after being forced to retire due to a neck injury.

The 26-year-old, who was injured in the Bledisloe Cup fixture against the All Blacks last Saturday, has suffered a fractured neck for a third time.

It was since confirmed by Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham that McCabe had called time but now the player has had his say on the news.

"It has truly been an honour to represent the Brumbies and the Wallabies over the past five years," he said in an open letter on smh.com.au.

"While my playing career has not ended the way I would have liked, I consider myself extremely fortunate. Fortunate to have met and shared experiences with special players and coaches. Fortunate to have played against opposition from around the world representing my country and province. And fortunate to walk away from the game with life-changing friendships and memories."

He added: "While the next chapter of my life is both exciting and terrifying in equal measure, I know that the lessons I have learnt in rugby will serve me well.

"It is an incredible game, has given me so much more than I could have ever dreamed of, and I will miss it immensely.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has made it such a special journey."